Roof Repair vs. Roof Replacement

Last updated August 12, 2024
Roof replacement can be an expensive project, but usually a necessary one. However, not all damaged roofs need to be fully replaced. Some roof damage is repairable without stripping the entire roof away, and clients may find this more efficient.
This guide covers roof replacement costs, types of roofing material, managing bids on roofing projects and deciding whether roof repair is a better option than replacement.
Table of Contents
How Much Does a Roof Replacement Cost?
Factors That Impact the Cost of Roof Replacement
Roof Repair Costs
Creating Roofing Estimates and Quotes
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How Much Does a Roof Replacement Cost?

The cost of a roof replacement can vary depending on the size of the roof and the type of roofing material used. The average roof replacement cost ranges between $5,000 and $10,000, but may reach up to $16,000 for more extensive or specialized projects.
In areas with higher material costs, Pros need to stay competitive while also covering the supplies necessary for each job. Consider the square footage of the roof and explain to clients the cost of their preferred roofing material. Different materials will vary in cost, and further expenses will contribute to the cost of labor and equipment.
Long-lasting materials are usually more expensive to install because they require more labor from contractors. Specialized roofing materials such as clay or concrete tiles may require additional preparation or specialized installation techniques. Contractors that specialize in these types of roofs may charge more for their expertise.
Asphalt shingles and roll roofing are the cheapest supplies to replace a roof. They are made from asphalt infused with minerals or cellulose and are easily installed. Neither offer as much aesthetic value as other options, but they can be applied in a quicker and more cost-effective manner.
Pros might suggest rolled roofing to clients working on a budget or with low-sloped roofs. It has an average lifespan of 5-8 years and resists cold climates. Some asphalt shingles can last up to 30 years depending on the quality of the product and climate conditions.
These are the most common roofing materials and their costs:
- Asphalt Shingles: $1-4 per square foot. The most cost-effective option in comparison to rolled roofing due to its longer life span, which is 12-30 years.
- Roll roofing: $1-2 per square foot. Highly cost-effective and a good option for short-term roofing needs. It lasts 5-8 years.
- Standing seam metal roofing: $10-16 per square foot. Popular in areas with heavy snowfall or risk of fires. It lasts 30-50 years and is recyclable.
- Metal shingles/shakes: $8-16 per square foot. Similar to standing seam roofing but with more aesthetic options. It lasts 30-50 years and is recyclable.
- Wood shingles/shakes: $4-9 per square foot (shingles) and $6-14 per square foot (shakes). This offers an attractive aesthetic, but it is susceptible to damage from fires and extreme weather. It can last 20-30 years or more in harsh conditions.
- Clay tile: $10-18 per square foot. One of the most durable roofing materials and a good choice in hot climates or near the ocean. They last 50-100 years depending on the environment.
- Concrete tile: $10-20 per square foot. This option is highly durable and can last as long as clay tile. The underlays may not last as long and need to be replaced.
- Slate shingles: $10-30 per square foot. One of the most expensive options and made from thinly cleaved stone. It is also a long-term option that can last from 50-150 years.
- Synthetic slate tiles: $9-12 per square foot. A more lightweight rubber option in lieu of slate shingles. Slate tiles offer the aesthetics of slate roofs but at a lower price and lifespan. They typically last 30 years.
Pro Tip: Consider creating and offering a maintenance program for clients with specialized roofs. This will provide safety and peace of mind going forward and help your company stay memorable.
Factors That Impact the Cost of Roof Replacement

When budgeting for a roof replacement, consider not only the upfront costs of the project, but also the long-term savings that can be achieved through energy-efficient roofing materials or more durable installations.
For example, investing in a high-quality metal roof may be more expensive upfront, but can save homeowners money on their energy bills over time by reflecting heat and reducing the need for air conditioning.
Similarly, a more durable roofing material can help homeowners avoid costly repairs or replacements. Contractors should advise their clients to save room in their roofing budget in case the scope of the job changes.
In addition to the material and labor costs associated with roof replacement, Pros should consider the costs of any necessary permits or inspections. Keep up to date on all permit requirements in your area for different roofing jobs. Permits may be required that could add several hundred dollars in expenses depending on the scale of the job.
Roof replacement will require a permit more often than roof repair. For example, jobs that include structural work such as replacing rafters or trusses may require a permit where simply replacing shingles does not.
Roof Repair Costs

Like roof replacement, roof repair jobs can vary in cost depending on similar factors. The average roof repair is less expensive and ranges between $300 and $1,000 with some repairs costing as much as $3,000. Most roof repair jobs will not require extensive structural changes, making the process faster and cheaper.
The primary difference between the cost of roof repair and roof replacement is the extent of the damage. A small leak or missing shingles may only require a simple repair, while larger areas of damage may require a more extensive repair or a full replacement.
When considering whether to repair or replace a roof, account for the roof’s age, the local climate and the long-term plans for the property. For example, if an asphalt shingle roof is less than 10-15 years old and the damage is relatively minor, a repair will typically be the more cost-effective choice.
If the roof is nearing the end of its lifespan and your client intends to sell the property, a full replacement can be a better investment. In the case of a 15 year old roof with extensive damage, a full replacement may be more cost effective in the end.
The local climate is another important consideration when deciding whether to repair or replace roofing. A roof replacement could give property managers the opportunity to upgrade to a better material which could improve property value or help save on energy. For example, a property with asphalt shingles in a very hot climate may benefit from an upgrade to metal tiles. The metal tiles will reflect more heat, which can help reduce air conditioning costs.
Preventing costly roof repairs is the key to maintaining the longevity of a roof and avoiding unnecessary expenses. This requires your client’s diligence in tracking the condition of the roof and addressing problems promptly. Advise they keep their property up to date with regular roof inspections. If you or an inspector identifies a problem, address it as soon as possible to prevent further wear and damage.
Conduct regular maintenance on the roof. This includes cleaning gutters, removing debris from the roof and removing snow and ice soon after it falls. Proper maintenance helps prevent roof damage from occurring in the first place.
Creating Roofing Estimates and Quotes

The first step in a roof repair or replacement project is creating an accurate estimate and quote for your potential client. The steps for estimating the costs of a roofing project are as follows:
- Assess the roof’s condition, size, slope, roofing material and any damages or issues.
- Calculate the material costs. Account for primary roofing material, underlayment, flashing, sealants and any other necessary components.
- Determine labor costs including hours, job complexity, wages and benefits.
- Determine equipment costs including tools, safety gear and machinery rentals.
- Incorporate overhead and profit margin when calculating the final quote price.
Potential clients are likely to be receiving quotes from competing roofing companies before and after requesting one from you. Make sure your company website contains customer reviews, references and your average rates for standard roofing jobs if possible. Provide licensing and insurance information where applicable, and make sure your inspectors have that information ready if a client asks for it.
When you visit the potential client’s property to create the estimate, be prepared to ask questions and provide any details they may request regarding the job. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the necessary work, the condition of the roof and its age.
Each roofing quote you offer to clients should include the following details:
- The type of roofing material the company intends to use
- The estimated amount of time it will take to complete the work and the number of workers who will be on site
- An estimate of cleanup and disposal cost of old roofing materials
- Any additional costs, such as permits or repairs that need to made before the new roof can be installed
- The payment schedule and any upfront costs that are required
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